Correcting O-Shaped Legs and Height Growth: A Guide for Young Women

Q: Correcting O-Shaped Legs and Height Growth: A Guide for Young Women

Hello, Miss Kitten： Generally, the clinical manifestations of bowlegs (genu varum) include 1. <br>internal rotation of the hip joint with separation of the knee joint, 2. <br>the inner side of the lower leg turning outward, making it impossible to bring the legs together, and 3.

Regarding spinal issues, O-shaped legs, and height growth?

Hello Doctor,
I am a 23-year-old female, standing at 158 cm tall.
I have had bow legs since childhood; I first noticed my legs were curved in the fifth or sixth grade when I saw that my friends could bring their knees together, which made me realize my leg shape was different from others.
Looking back at old photos, I can see that my legs have always been bent.
In addition to the curvature of my calves, my knees are also bent, and my ankles are not straight.
There is about a 6 cm gap between my knees, and the bones on both sides of my pelvis and my pubic bone are quite prominent.
Additionally, my spine slightly protrudes backward, and it is quite noticeable when I stand straight.

Now that I am 23, I wonder if it is possible to correct my leg shape through exercise and gain an additional 2 cm in height.
About three years ago, I visited an orthopedic department at a large hospital, but the doctor only took a quick look and said that surgery was the only option.
He also advised me that as long as it does not affect my normal life, I should avoid surgery.
Recently, there have been many popular chiropractic and osteopathic treatments, but I am unsure where to find a legitimate and effective clinic offering such services.
As I have grown older, the severity of my bow legs has also increased.
I really hope that I won't become an elderly woman who has difficulty walking in the future.

I hope you can help me with my concerns.
Thank you.

Xiao Miao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/23

Dr. Xu Zhenrong reply Physical Fitness

Hello, Miss Kitten: Generally, the clinical manifestations of bowlegs (genu varum) include 1.
internal rotation of the hip joint with separation of the knee joint, 2.
the inner side of the lower leg turning outward, making it impossible to bring the legs together, and 3.
internal rotation of the ankle joint that cannot be brought together.
It can be classified into a.
postural type: usually a deformation caused by external posture affecting the muscles and joints, while the bones themselves are normal, and b.
structural type: usually caused by metabolic diseases or skeletal dysplasia, which requires correction through surgical intervention or assistive devices.
If it is postural bowlegs, we recommend the following exercises and appropriate insoles to help improve and prevent worsening: 1.
Strength training exercises: strengthen the muscles responsible for external rotation of the hip joint and the muscles responsible for hip abduction.
2.
Stretching exercises: stretch the internal rotator muscles of the hip joint, the adductor muscles of the hip joint, and the gastrocnemius muscle of the lower leg.
3.
Maintain good posture: avoid shoulder internal rotation, forward bending of the trunk, and excessive backward pushing of the knee joint.
4.
Appropriate insoles: The Assistive Device Research Center affiliated with major hospitals has specially designed insoles to correct bowlegs, which can be inquired about online or by phone.
We suggest you visit a nearby rehabilitation clinic for further consultation and assessment, where a physical therapist can design a suitable exercise program for you; our rehabilitation team is happy to provide you with professional medical services.
Director of the Rehabilitation Department, Taipei City Hospital, Hsu Chen-Jung.

Reply Date: 2005/10/23

More Info

Correcting O-Shaped Legs and Height Growth: A Guide for Young Women
Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your O-shaped legs and potential height growth. At 23 years old, you are at a stage where your bones have likely completed most of their growth, as most women reach their full height by their late teens to early twenties. However, there are still some considerations regarding your leg shape and overall posture.

O-shaped legs, or genu varum, can be a result of various factors, including genetics, nutritional deficiencies during childhood, or certain medical conditions. It’s important to understand that while some degree of curvature in the legs is normal, excessive bowing can lead to discomfort and potential complications later in life, such as osteoarthritis or joint pain.

Regarding your question about correcting the shape of your legs through exercise, it is essential to note that while certain exercises can strengthen the muscles around the knees and improve overall leg alignment, they may not significantly alter the bone structure itself. Exercises that focus on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles can help improve your posture and potentially alleviate some discomfort associated with O-shaped legs. Activities such as swimming, cycling, and specific strength training can be beneficial. However, it is crucial to consult with a physical therapist or a qualified trainer who can design a personalized exercise program tailored to your needs.

As for height growth, it is unlikely that you will grow taller at this stage. The growth plates in your long bones typically close after puberty, and once they are closed, no further height increase is possible. However, maintaining good posture through exercises and stretches can help you appear taller and more confident.

You mentioned that a doctor advised against surgery unless it significantly impacts your daily life. This is a common recommendation, as surgical interventions carry risks and require a significant recovery period. If your O-shaped legs do not cause pain or functional limitations, conservative management through exercise and physical therapy may be the best approach.

Regarding the popularity of chiropractic and osteopathic treatments, it is essential to seek care from licensed professionals. While some individuals report benefits from these therapies, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for correcting O-shaped legs is limited. Always ensure that any treatment you pursue is conducted by a qualified practitioner in a reputable facility.

Lastly, your concerns about future mobility and the potential for becoming less active as you age are valid. Taking proactive steps now by engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and focusing on strengthening your legs and core can help mitigate future issues. Additionally, consider incorporating flexibility exercises, such as yoga or Pilates, which can enhance your overall body awareness and posture.

In summary, while significant changes to the shape of your legs may not be achievable through exercise alone, focusing on strength, flexibility, and posture can improve your overall well-being. If you have ongoing concerns, consider seeking a second opinion from a specialist in orthopedic medicine or a physical therapist who can provide a comprehensive assessment and tailored recommendations. Thank you for sharing your concerns, and I wish you the best on your journey to better health!

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